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♪
♪ If someone told me it was Christmas Day ♪
♪ I would say no way ♪
♪ What kind of game you playin ♪
♪ My feet's in the sand ♪
♪ The sun's got a plan to make me tan ♪
♪
♪ Oh, all I know is the snow ♪
Merry Christmas. Love your sweater.
Don't forget your mittens.
Oh, uh, Dr. Thompson.
Your passes are waiting for you at the concierge desk.
Miss Rhodes, Miss Rhodes, can you help me?
The front desk is giving me the run-around.
Of course, Ms. Jennings. What can I do for you?
Well, I just want to use my Star Resorts points
for a ticket to the Christmas Eve Variety Show.
Now, is that so hard to do?
Ah, well this isn't a Star Rewards hotel and...
Oh...
And I'm so sorry, but the show is completely sold out.
There's nothing I can do.
Well... But I have over 100,000 points.
Right. Still the same issues.
Actually, why don't you check
with our assistant manager, Jackson?
He's right over there.
I'm sure he'd love to help you.
Hm? Jackson!
You don't look like you have any contraband.
[laughs]
They're cracking down, Claire.
Yesterday somebody tried to sneak a llama-
No, they didn't.
But if they did that's a federal crime.
Well, you almost caught me red-handed, Otis.
Can you do me a solid just this once?
Because it's you and because it's Christmas.
Thank you. I owe you one.
Enjoy the Nevada weather.
♪ I just want to go where the snow don't know... ♪
[sighs]
This song.
-Claire Bear. -Hey.
Check these out.
Last quarter's consolidated report.
Between the golf tournaments, ski packages, conferences,
and the casino draw,
we're on track for our best year ever.
Don't forget about the sold-out Christmas Eve Variety Show.
Yeah. Sorry, that too. Icing on the cake.
How's prep going?
Good. Just down to the finer details.
Lighting cues, drum risers, red and green M&Ms.
Great. Great.
And you're staying on top of everything else?
Of course, Dad.
-Our annual Christmas Gala? -Booked and prepared a party.
-Gingerbread decorating contest? -Off to a sweet start.
-Christmas Day snowmobile tour? -Ready to ride.
Sorry.
It's just you spent a lot more time
on the variety show this year
and I want to make sure the rest of our core business
is getting taken care of.
I know, and it is.
I don't know what I'd do without you.
Thanks, Dad.
-I, uh, gotta go. -Back to work.
Beautiful.
Looks great, everyone.
Oh, this is going to be perfect.
There you are.
You have like, a sixth sense.
Tools of the trade.
Miss Jennings says hi.
Sorry. She trapped me. I panicked.
It's okay. I'll get you back.
Are we really out of comps.
Yeah, crazy right?
I mean, it's only the biggest show we've ever had.
[phone rings]
Oh!
Oh, hold on one sec.
This is Claire.
Claire, hi. Andre Hudson here.
Emperor Resorts Entertainment.
Hello. How are you?
No complaints here.
Listen Claire, I'm going to get right to the point.
My boss really enjoyed meeting you.
In fact, he thinks you might be the perfect fit
to run the variety show at our new theatre.
Truth is we're all very impressed with you, Claire.
And, how in the world did you get Ashley Burns
to play up there?
She's literally one of the hottest pop stars
on the planet right now.
Oh simple, I just called her manager twice a day...
for six months.
[chuckles]
Right. Right.
Well, good for you.
Now if you can achieve that up in Tahoe
there's no limit to what you could achieve down here in Vegas
with our full Emperor resources at your disposal.
I like where you're going, Andre.
So, listen, I'd like to come up next week and see the show.
Watch you in action.
We can discuss the job a little more
and if all goes well, make a formal offer.
Okay, uh, that sounds great.
I'll book you a room with a view of the lake.
That sounds perfect.
And I'm very much looking forward to this.
Me too, thanks.
[giggling excitedly]
I feel like I should be filming that.
Oh, Jackson! Can you keep a secret?
My ex-wife says no.
Close enough.
I think I'm about to get a job running the new variety show
for The Emperor Resorts in Las Vegas.
Wow Claire, congratulations!
Thanks.
They're coming to the show next week
and assuming the theatre doesn't explode, I think I'm in.
So, that's why you went all out for the show this year.
They're the place for live entertainment so I...
[sighs]
I had to show them what I could do.
Hmm. Well, you deserve it.
Thanks.
Well, good luck.
Hey, you, you don't think I should go?
I mean, this is your family's hotel.
Wouldn't it be hard to leave?
Well, of course. I spent my whole life here,
but my dream was always to work in entertainment.
Which almost happened when I was managing...
The band who shall not be named.
Also, whose name is like a bobcat.
Okay, I need you to focus.
Sorry.
Now, all I do is weddings, bar mitzvahs,
tours, conferences...
Dealing with Miss Jennings.
Exactly.
People don't come to the Inn on the Lake for live entertainment.
I mean, sure we can attract the crowds at Christmas
because let's be honest,
there's no better place to be for the holidays.
Not even close.
But we can't compete with the bigger markets
the rest of the year.
So, if I'm going to take my shot
I've got to go where the action is.
I take it your dad doesn't know.
Uh, no.
I don't want to tell him until I get an official offer.
I'd rather not bring it up if I don't have to, so...
Until then, our secret?
Thanks.
Oh hey, do you want to come with me to the Christmas markets?
I'm going to pick up some goodies
for the performers' gift baskets.
Can't, sorry. I got a thing.
"A thing."
Is that what we call dating now?
Stop. There's no dating happening.
Right, right, right. You're not fooling anyone.
Bye.
Oh hey.
In case you're just joining us,
we're here at the storied Lakeside Pavilion Theatre here
with my guest multi-platinum recording artists,
our very own, Wild Lynx.
Finally, back in town for some much needed R&R
after a long time on the road.
So, how long since y'all been back?
Oh gosh, I don't know, five years?
Six actually.
Radio DJ: Oof. Any plans for the holidays?
Just going to spend time with family.
Do some Christmas shopping.
And then we'll be starting up
the next leg of the tour in January.
Radio DJ: Well, you guys are killing it.
It's been a pleasure chatting with you guys today
and I can't wait to see what's next.
-Same. -Yeah, me too.
Radio DJ: All right. Well, let's play the song
that put you guys on the map.
A little Christmas Island.
[rock music plays] ♪
No. Four monitors, not three.
Yeah, as soon as you can.
Tell them it's for the variety show with Ashley Burns.
That should kick them into gear.
Perfect. Thank you. Bye.
[rock music playing] ♪
[sighs]
Hey! Merry Christmas, Claire!
Bert, hi. Uh, how are you?
Good. Good, good, good, good.
Listen, if you're still looking for acts for this year's show,
just give me a holler and I'll be over in a flash
with my trusty bagpipes.
Hmm. Nothing says Christmas like Danny Boy.
Well, they'll never see it coming.
[uncomfortably] Hm. They certainly won't.
[laughs]
Uh, I will let you know if we need anyone
but I think for now we're set.
-Okay. -Yeah.
-Take care, Bert. -You too.
-Yeah. -Thanks.
[excited squealing]
Ryan Donaldson!!!
Do you want to take a photo? Yeah?
[excited squealing]
That's one.
[excited squealing]
Ryan: I like your hat. It's nice.
Oh sure.
[camera shutter snaps]
Look, it's our lead singer, Alistair.
Oh!
Oh, my gosh, I'm so sorry.
Claire?
Hi.
What are you doing back here?
Hiding from you. What are you doing here?
Hiding from fans.
No. I mean, what are you doing here in Tahoe?
Oh, um, the band's taking a couple weeks off
for the holidays.
I finally get to be home for Christmas.
[clears throat]
[awkwardly] So how are you?
-Great. -You?
Yeah, good.
I saw your lineup for the Christmas Eve show.
Nice work.
Thanks.
I managed to get pretty resourceful
after I had to change up my career plans.
You couldn't resist, could you?
No.
Hmm.
Well, look at the time.
You know I really should be going.
As you know Christmas is our busiest time of year.
Welcome home.
Hey guys, Ryan Donaldson is behind that booth
if you still want to say hi.
[crowds shrieking]
Claire: Oh Mom, I love doing this with you every year.
I do too, honey.
You know, I remember doing this from the time
when you were too short to even reach the mantle.
Aww.
On another note, have you been keeping something from me?
I'm not sure what you mean.
I saw Ryan today.
I saw Claire today.
Did you now?
How long have you known that he was coming home for Christmas?
It just slipped my mind
with all the hustle and bustle of the holidays.
Besides, you would've seen him tomorrow night
at Carols on the Lake anyway.
Wait, wait, what?
Joyce and Archie are our best friends
and their granddaughter Gabby's going to be singing in the choir.
Just like you and Ryan used to.
And then we're going to the Rhodes'
white elephant party the day after that.
Seriously?
And Christmas Eve, the variety show.
Mom, with all this stuff happening with the band,
I was really hoping to have a quiet non-stressful Christmas.
Need I remind you I haven't seen him since we broke up.
Not to mention we didn't exactly end off on the best of terms.
Yeah, well whose fault is that?
It's time to bury the hatchet, okay?
Gone on long enough.
And what better time
to let bygones be bygones than at Christmas?
I love you Mom, but you are killing me.
Oh Claire, come on. It'll be so much fun.
It's going to be fun.
Yeah.
Oh, and wear something cute.
Mom!
♪
[phone rings]
Lance, if you're calling to say you want to book
Ashley a second night, twist my arm, we'll do it.
Lance: I wish that were the case.
Hmm, not liking the way you said that.
Lance: Well, look, I hate to be the bearer of bad news
but Ashley's doctor found a couple of nodules on her vocal chords.
Oh, no.
Lance: She'll be fine but she needs surgery
which is going to take her out for a couple of months.
Needless to say, we're going to have to cancel next week's show.
I'm so sorry.
Uh, yeah no. I understand.
Lance: I'd offer one of our other clients
but no one's available with it being last minute and the holidays.
Right.
Give Ashley our best.
Ashley's out. Vocal cord surgery.
Ay, yi, yi. I'm so sorry.
Okay. Um, you know what?
Maybe I'm in the first stage of grief but it's fine.
It's fine. We're fine.
We, uh, we have two other solid acts.
It is a variety show after all.
We just need to find a... a headliner.
[phone rings]
It's the Magician's agent.
[clears throat]
Yes?
Agent: So, Ashley's out, huh?
How did you? I literally just heard.
Instagram. So, what's the plan?
The whole show's getting cancelled?
No, no, it's not.
[phone vibrating]
Hold on.
[whispers] It's Stone Parade's manager.
Oh jeez. Ignore it.
Don't, don't worry.
We are going to find somebody else.
As big as Ashley?
We signed on because of her, Claire.
This literally just happened.
[phone ringing]
Jackson: Yes, hi.
Just give us 24 to 48 hours.
Sorry Claire. Not the terms we agreed to.
Gotta do what's best for my client here.
[sighs]
Stone Parade's out.
[sighs]
Try the five-finger breathing technique.
Really helped me during the divorce.
[exhales]
How about the "instantly rebooked variety show" technique?
That would really help me.
I have faith in you.
Well, I appreciate that but this is like,
magical wish upon a star Christmas miracle
level of difficulty.
Hey. I gotta get back to work.
We'll talk later okay?
Okay.
[whimpers]
Someone get hurt?
Worse. Ashley cancelled.
Vocal nodules.
And then the other acts followed once they heard.
Aw shoot. That's too bad.
Well, we may have to refund some of the tickets.
Let's get the staff on that ASAP.
I'll give Kevin Timbers a call. I know he'll happily fill in.
Wait Dad, no.
We are not booking Kevin Timbers.
No one under 60 even knows who he is.
He used to do the show all the time before you took over.
And every generation can appreciate
a folk rendition of "Jingle Bells".
Besides, beggars can't be choosers.
The show is in a week.
Dad please. Give me a few days, okay?
Let me see what I can do.
Sweetheart, I know you worked really hard on this
but we'll be fine.
Like I said, we're going to have a banner year regardless.
Dad, just let me try, please.
But why?
Well, I need...
I want the show to be special.
Okay.
Thank you, Dad.
[clears throat]
-Hey Dad. -Hey hon.
You made it.
Real smooth.
I don't know what you mean.
There she is.
Oh, proud parents.
Merry Christmas, Claire.
Merry Christmas. Gabby excited?
More than you can imagine.
[laughs]
I just hope she keeps herself in check.
I heard her practicing this week in her room, and get ready.
[laughs]
Okay.
-Joyce. -Hi Claire.
-Archie. -Hi Claire.
-Merry Christmas. -Merry Christmas.
-Hey. -Hi.
For the record, none of this was my idea.
I know.
[clears throat]
[exhales]
Everything okay?
Oh, yeah. Everything's wonderful.
Just "Yay Christmas, life is a sugarplum" wonderful.
Oh, it's starting.
[applause]
Love you, sweetie!
♪ Dashing through the snow ♪
♪ In a one-horse open sleigh, ♪
[phone ringing loudly]
♪ O'er the fields we go, ♪
♪ Laughing all the way. ♪
♪ Ha ha ha ♪
♪ Bells on bobtails ring, ♪
Shh!
[phone stops ringing]
♪ Making spirits bright. ♪
♪ What fun it is to ride and sing ♪
[laughing] That was awesome.
♪ A sleighing song tonight, oh! ♪
♪ Jingle bells, jingle bells, ♪
♪ Jingle all the way. ♪
[crowd laughing]
♪ Oh, what fun it is to ride ♪
♪ In a one-horse open sleigh, hey! ♪
♪ Jingle bells, jingle bells, ♪
Looks like someone takes after her uncle.
What? I wasn't like that.
You did cartwheels when we sang "Deck the Halls" in eighth grade.
-I did? -Mmmhmm.
Must have blocked it out.
♪ ...Oh, what fun it is to ride, ♪
♪ In a one-horse open sleigh. ♪
[cheering and applause]
That's our girl!
I am so sorry, Gabby.
Hopefully these complimentary tickets to our sledding hill
will make up for it.
For the whole choir?
Oh, I don't have...
Right. Right.
Here you go.
Thanks, Claire.
If I got something for every time
somebody messed up one of our shows, I'd be rich.
-You are rich. -Richer.
Is that a humblebrag?
More like a poorly thought out joke.
Ah.
I heard about what happened with the variety show.
I'm really sorry.
Oh no, it's okay. I'll figure it out.
I, uh, I do have to run though, I have some calls to make.
So, I guess I'll be seeing you at the white elephant.
Yeah, I guess you will. And good luck.
Thanks.
But I got it covered.
I do not have this covered. We got nothing.
Okay, okay. Let's just take stock.
Who do you have so far?
Well, we could have Kevin Timbers but I'm not going there.
You're right. We got nothing.
Yeah. Everyone's either booked for the holidays
or spending Christmas with their families.
[groans]
I mean, there has to be someone I haven't thought of yet.
Well, when are we going to talk about the elephant,
or dare I say, bobcat in the room?
Oh, you didn't.
Sorry, I had to.
-but they're not booked. -Jackson...
-for any shows over the holidays.
They fired me. Remember?
You need a big-name act.
I have... options.
You have Kevin Timbers.
Hey, didn't you play guitar?
What? That was a long time ago.
Look, I know this is the last thing you want to do.
But if you want to impress The Emperor,
you need star power.
Wild Lynx is as big and convenient as it gets.
They'll help attract other acts too.
I hate it when you're right.
Do you have a...
Thank you.
Just think of it as business.
The least those guys can do
is help you move forward in your career.
Ryan owes you.
[bagpipes "We Wish You a Merry Christmas"] ♪
I came as soon as I heard.
I'm here to save your show.
[sighs]
♪
This is such a nice surprise.
Well... You here to see Ryan?
Yeah. Well, no... For business.
Oh.
Okay. Well, he should be back from his run any minute.
In the meantime, you can help us decorate Christmas cookies.
Aww!
Hey, look who's here.
[laughs] Hey.
Hey Claire.
These smell amazing.
Are these for the white elephant?
Yes.
Got your present yet?
Uh, no.
That is one more thing on a long list of things
I still need to do.
Woo!
Busy time.
I think that is the first time I've exercised in a year.
It's a good thing there's no paparazzi out there.
I don't want anyone to see me looking like this.
-Hi. -Hi.
Don't know what's worse, how you look right now
or the fact that you're worried about how you look right now.
You mean, the guy who used to use a bottle of hair gel
before every single show?
[laughs]
Oh, my gosh, yes.
How many times before a gig did I hear
"Claire, I forgot my hair gel."
Okay, the slick look was in.
No. More than once I had to tell a club owner to move the lights
because we were worried your hair was a fire hazard.
[laughs]
Okay, this is fun.
Um...
Claire, to what do we owe the pleasure?
Do you mind if we take a walk?
Oh uh, yeah sure.
Just let me change and grab one of these for the road.
Hey!
Wow, the Wishing Tree.
Haven't been there in forever. Last time was probably with you.
Yeah. I think that was when you wished
that Wild Lynx would make it big.
Jeez. Sounds so cringey now.
What was your wish?
That I'd be right there with you as your manager.
I'm on fire today.
-I'm sorry. -No, it's fine.
Listen, I'm... I'm not here to talk about all that.
Okay.
So, rebooking the show has been a bit tougher than I thought,
and I what I wanted to ask you is... this is hard.
Okay...
Do you think Wild Lynx could headline for me?
[sighs]
We can't. I'm sorry.
What?
I had to meditate before I came here just to get Zen enough
to ask you this favor and now you're saying no?
Well, look... If it was up to me it'd be a yes in a second.
But... the band isn't getting along.
Well, no, it's... it's just me and Alistair.
We're not speaking at the moment.
Oh. Why?
It's complicated.
But that's the real reason we came out here for the holidays.
Give ourselves some space.
Gosh. I'm sorry.
If you don't mind my asking,
why are you putting so much pressure on yourself
for the show this year?
It's usually much more low-key. Couldn't you just do that?
No, I, I can't.
Um, I'm on my final interview for my dream job
at The Emperor Resorts in Las Vegas.
-Really? -Yeah.
They're sending a rep to see the show
so, it can't just be run of the mill.
Ugh, everything was on track until Ashley Burns cancelled
and it all imploded.
Huh. Okay. So, Vegas.
What? You knew I never intended to stay at the inn.
I mean, I've loved it, of course, but after we...
Broke up.
Yes, that. But after we stopped working together
I realized that my real passion was putting on live events.
Seeing the joy it brings people.
And at The Emperor I'd be able to do that full-time,
working with the best in the business.
So, if I don't make the move now I might never get another shot.
What does your dad think?
He doesn't know. I knew it would upset him.
I didn't want to say anything unless it was actually going to happen,
and now it appears that it won't, so...
Look. I know a ton of people in the industry.
Maybe I could make some calls.
I don't know. See if anybody's available.
You don't have to do that. I'll figure it out.
What if we call it my Christmas present to you?
-Okay. -Okay.
Fine. Um, thank you.
Of course.
I mean, I was planning on catching up on sleep
for the first time in, you know, six years.
Stop it.
Yeah, no your thing sounds fun though.
Wow.
I am totally flashing back to that Christmas Eve concert
we played in senior year of college.
That one where Chaos threw his drumsticks into the crowd
and basically knocked out that old lady?
Yeah. He uh, he stopped doing that.
Peppermint latte, right?
Yes. That's right. Um, thanks.
So, um, what are you doing here?
I got some good news
and I thought I'd come tell you in person.
Oh, you patched things up with Alistair
and Wild Lynx can play the show?
-No. -Darn it.
Do you know the group Fleur Du Ciel?
Yeah, the acrobat group out of San Francisco?
They're awesome. Huge.
We have the same agent so I called them this morning
and they are not booked for Christmas Eve
and no one is traveling for the holidays.
So, I gave them your number and he's going to be reaching out.
Wait, really?
Wow. Thank you.
[laughs]
Obviously, it's not a done deal
but it's at least a solid lead, right?
Yeah.
[laughs]
Boy, that does wonders for my Christmas spirit.
And my Christmas anxiety.
[chuckles]
I've spent the whole morning basically stalking performers
on social media to see if anyone happens to be vacationing
in Tahoe for the holidays.
And?
All I could find so far was this.
#TahoeBabes.
#MomJokes.
[laughs]
Here. Let me see what I can find.
You know, um, I was thinking.
Would it be crazy if you did a solo set?
No one wants to see just the guitar player.
The mob at the Christmas market would disagree.
Yeah. I think one of them got a lock of my hair.
Okay. How about this guy?
Uh, no.
[laughs]
Anyway... I don't have any of my own material
and Alistair would flip if I played the band's songs.
Okay, but you don't have any of your own material?
You're an incredible songwriter. I thought you loved that.
It's actually this whole issue with Alistair.
Okay, what do you mean?
Well, because I want to be writing more.
I have all these ideas,
it's just too hard for me to focus on the road.
I know plenty of people can do it but not me.
It just, it feels like there's always somewhere to be.
Gigs, rehearsals, airports, promotions.
It's... it's exhausting.
Plus, I don't know, I think it's starting to wear on me.
So, I told Alistair that I wanted to cut back on tour dates.
He accused me of sabotaging the group,
not being a team player.
Blah, blah, blah, blah, blah.
Jeez Alistair. He's always all or nothing.
How did the other guys feel?
They're staying out of it. Trying to keep the peace.
Sounds like them.
Yeah, so...
Now I just... I don't know what to do.
Remember when you sang the first few lines
of "Christmas Island" to me at The Wishing Tree?
Yeah. I was ready to scrap it.
You said it was going to be a big hit.
And it was.
And now it's a perennial Christmas staple
that literally haunts me everywhere I go.
[laughs]
Anyway, all I know is you're...
you're too good not to be writing.
[gasps]
Ricki Page is vacationing in Tahoe.
The comedian?
Yeah, she'd be great. How are you going to find where-
The Ridgley.
Okay what? How did you?
Complimentary ski pass. We give them out all the time.
[laughs]
Okay. That is some A+ stalking.
Remind me not to get on your bad side.
Uh... Your worse side.
I'm calling her manager.
Yes, hello.
This is Claire Rhodes from The Inn on the Lake.
Yes.
Would Ricki Page happen to be available
for our annual variety show on Christmas Eve?
Right.
Sure, yeah. I... I understand.
Thank you.
Thank you so much and um, Merry Christmas to you too.
Surprise, surprise.
She's all booked up and wouldn't be interested.
Well, at risk of kicking a hornet's nest,
we both know that bands don't always listen to their managers.
I assume it's the same for comedians.
How do I get to her?
Does Jackson still work here?
...yeah, of course.
Hey.
Oh, hey Ryan. Welcome back.
Hey thanks, man. Good to be here.
So, Claire has a lead on a replacement act for the show
and she needs your help with an RSI.
What's an RSI?
Ooh. An RSI? That's some heavy stuff.
Heavy?
What's heavy?
What's The Inn on the Lake's network like at the Ridgley?
It's doable.
I did a successful FTP and a PCT there a while back.
But I haven't completed a RSI in a while.
Let me check my contact.
Great. It's for Ricki Page.
Oh, she'll be under
-MIP. -MIP.
One sec.
Okay. Will someone please tell me what we're talking about?
An RSI stands for room service interloper.
It's how fans get access to a celebrity's hotel room
via the concierge network.
Why do I have a feeling I'm about to pose
as a room service attendant?
Because we're about to pose as room service attendants.
Sorry, we?
Oh, yeah. No way am I going to miss this.
It's all set up.
My guy will meet you in the service hallway by the kitchen.
He'll have a complimentary bottle of bubbly
and a plate of French fries to be delivered to Miss Page.
Why fries?
Who doesn't love fries?
Also, something called faux fries
that are made from seaweed.
I'm just uh... I'm going to just pretend this is normal
and just go with it.
Yeah. That's called an accessory after the...
I didn't hear anything.
Go for Otis.
.
Probably best if you talk fast once we're in.
You know what you're going to say yet?
Yeah, I was going to wing it.
I'm kidding.
No. Ricki's engaged so I'm going to offer her
two weeks at the honeymoon suite, spa treatments, the works.
In addition to her fee. Treat them like the royal couple.
I like it. Okay, this is it.
[knocks]
Hey, what do you usually do
when someone room service interlopes you?
Oh, I call security.
Wait, what?
I didn't order anything.
Compliments of the hotel.
Oh. Yeah. Sure. Whatever.
You can set it up over by the couch.
[clears throat]
[stammers] So... Miss Page. I...
Have you ever been dumped at Christmas?
No?
I mean, who does that?
Everyone knows there's an unwritten rule
that after Thanksgiving you ride the relationship out
until January even if you're both miserable.
[sighs]
Look at all these Christmas presents I bought him.
What a waste.
I'm so sorry.
French fries?
No.
Yes.
That bottle's not going to open itself.
Wait. We know each other?
Nope.
You know what, um...
I don't know if this helps but I do know what it's like
to have a relationship end before a big event.
It's the worst.
Right? What happened to you?
Well, I happened to be managing a local band.
-Dating the lead guitarist. -Mmm.
Things really started to take off for them
and then they just got... difficult.
Heads get bigger.
Pfft. Rock stars.
They're not all bad.
They thought they were outgrowing me,
started resisting my ideas.
Next thing you know they dropped me for a big-time manager.
And then they sign with a label at a showcase that, get this,
I booked for them.
-What? -Mm-hmm.
It's a rough business out there, I get it.
But I was at least expecting some support from my boyfriend
which didn't really happen.
[cork pops loudly]
Needless to say, we broke up too.
Oh, girl.
Bring it in.
Come on. Yeah. Yeah. Hug it out.
That's okay.
If I could just chime in here.
There are two sides to every story.
My side's all she needs to hear.
He's in training.
Ah.
Thanks.
You know what really got me back on my feet?
Throwing myself into my work.
It helped me to figure out what I really wanted
and now I have no regrets.
So, you're saying I should just forget about him
as quickly as possible.
Not exactly.
Look, Ricki... your gift is to make people laugh
and help them feel better about themselves.
So, I say why not turn this relationship egg into eggnog
and use it for material?
-Wow. Room service therapy. -Mm-hmm.
This is a good hotel. And you're a good server.
About that.
You're a room service interloper.
Okay, let me explain.
And now that I think about it.
Aren't you a musician or something?
Hold on. No way. You're in Wild Lynx!
Guilty.
Woah.
I gotta hear this.
All right. Christmas Eve I'll give you 30 minutes.
Now go fill out the rest of the show with cool acts
so I don't regret this.
Thank you. We will.
It's going to be an amazing night, trust me.
Are you sure I can have this?
Totally. It's just a stocking stuffer.
Okay great. See you soon.
Hey, for what it's worth, you all make a good team.
My guy would've never done something like this for me.
♪
So, one down and how many to go?
Um, two at least.
Can't really call it a variety show with anything less.
All right. One down, two to go.
Thank you for coming with me.
I never thought I'd say this, but you were actually helpful.
No, come on. That was all you in there.
I forgot how good you were in a room.
Uh look, um...
I wanted to say what you said to Ricki in there was true
and I'm sorry... for everything.
We really did think signing with a more established manager
was a good move at the time.
But did we have to? I don't know.
I think the real problem was I thought we could separate
our personal and business relationship
and that was naive and unfair, and I'm sorry.
Thanks.
You know, honestly what ended up happening
was probably for the best.
I mean, the last thing anyone wanted was for it all to derail
because of the lead guitarist's girlfriend.
You were so much more than that.
I'm just saying. You became a huge success
and got to share your music with the world
and it allowed me to figure out
that I'm good not managing bands.
Or your egos.
[laughs]
Besides I... I would've hated life on the road.
That makes two of us.
To um, letting bygones be bygones?
No better time than Christmas.
So, are you going to open that? See what Ricki Page got you?
Oh, no way.
I'm saving it for the white elephant party.
Saves me a trip to the store.
Ah, man. I still have to do that.
Just give away a signed photo of yourself.
Hmm.
The most self-absorbed gift I could ever give.
I like that. That's a really good idea.
Yeah. Good. You're welcome.
A stocking stuffer.
[laughs]
-Hey guys. -Perfect timing.
You can help us hang ornaments.
I am trying to find that little special one
that we always put on at the very end.
Hey, guess who booked Ricki Page for a set for the concert.
Who's Ricki Page?
Ricki Page is an incredible comedian.
Honey, that's great.
Thanks.
I heard that Ryan helped you?
Yes, Mom.
That's good.
So, you're all set then?
No, I need a few more acts.
Did you look in this one?
No, I have not looked in that box yet.
-Here. -Thank you.
Did you say a few more acts?
Claire honey, the show's in five days.
Please let me give...
Listen, I... I have an incredible acrobat group
out of San Francisco that's interested as well.
They can headline.
I just need a little, little more time.
Okay. But remember...
To stay on top of my hotel duties, I know, I...
[sighs]
I...
Hey, what is it?
I know you see this variety show
as just another thing we do on the side.
But it's... it's more than that for me.
I... I really love doing this stuff.
I'm sorry Claire Bear, I know.
I wish we could do it more often.
I sure tried to get it going back in the day,
but, I think, the resort has managed to do
just fine all the same.
♪
Look what I just found.
Can we please get a nicer ornament
to hang last on the tree than this one
I literally made in five minutes in third grade?
That's what makes it fun.
-A family tradition. -A family tradition.
Okay.
[laughs]
-How's that? -Perfect.
Front and center.
-See. -Beautiful.
♪
[sighs]
Oh hey, how did that hotel ruse work out?
It worked!
I got Ricki Page to commit to our show.
Oh, that's great.
I know. But she's all I got.
Well, there's always Kevin Timbers.
Okay, you stop that.
Have you been talking to my dad?
And how old are you?
I'm old.
And I'm also old enough to know that you'll work it out.
Thanks Otis.
Antonio's is also great for pasta,
as are the other three I recommended.
Yeah, okay.
But do they have that pasta with the little,
you know, the little hole in it, the balantini?
-One sec. Sorry. -Yeah.
Ballerini? Bicotti?
Wow. Okay. Talk to me about pasta.
Could you give these a look for me?
They're blank.
Just pretend they're important.
Oh yes, mm. Very, very important.
How was hanging with Ryan?
Fine.
That's it?
Okay, are we really doing this?
Is she still there?
Yes.
Then yes, please.
Okay. Well honestly, it was um... it was fun.
-Oh really. -Mm-hmm.
He actually apologized for everything.
Wow. Didn't see that coming.
Yeah, I know, me neither.
I guess, we can kind of be friends now, maybe.
Nice. That's great.
Yeah.
Ah. We're clear.
Hallelujah.
By the way, I am taking off a few minutes early tonight.
Twice in one week?
Jackson, things are getting serious with this woman.
For the last time...
There is no woman, I know, I know.
And I'm Mrs. Claus.
I googled it. It's called bucatini.
Boom.
[exhales]
♪ So, let's remember it. ♪ No that's...
♪ So let's December it, reassemble it, oh... ♪
[sighs heavily]
-What are you doing here? -What are you doing here?
Booked a rehearsal room.
Yeah, me too, man.
They must have assumed we were playing together.
Look.
I get that you're upset.
'Cause you're trying to throw away years of our hard work.
I'm not trying to throw away anything.
It's been six years of constant touring.
I want to be writing and I can't do that on the road, okay?
Why is that a problem?
We put out two hit albums over the past four years.
Yeah, with a bunch of songs
written by people the label hired.
There's nothing wrong with that.
I'm exhausted.
So, you're quitting.
No, I... I don't know.
But I can't keep doing the same thing
expecting to feel that everything's okay.
Yeah... Just remember
Wild Lynx was our dream.
We made a commitment to each other.
The rehearsal hall is all yours.
Okay. Cameron is keeping the bicycle pizza slicer.
Sure is.
And this is...
That is huge.
Aww.
Just what I... never wanted.
[laughing]
Okay. Looks like number six is next.
That's me!
Oh.
Woah.
[applause]
It's a gift certificate for...
What is Botox?
-Oh, I'll take it! -I'll take it!
I'll take it!
[laughing]
Who in the world would get that?
[laughing] Sorry, we got it from Ricki Page.
She said it was a stocking stuffer.
If that's just a stocking stuffer
I want to go to her white elephant party.
She probably hands out actual white elephants.
You guys hold tight.
I'm going to go put the finishing touches
on the yule log.
I assume you're ready for dessert.
[crowd] Oh, yeah.
Born ready.
Let me help.
-Oh, thanks. -You too, come.
Hey, I talked to your agent about Fleur Du Ciel.
-Oh yeah? -Yeah.
They still need to confirm
but he said that it's basically just a formality at this point.
-That's amazing. -I know, right?
You're a lifesaver for connecting us, thank you.
Now I just need to find one more act.
Fingers crossed.
Wait. Is this the one that got broken from that house party
you threw in high school?
Hey, woah, woah. Shh.
I did not spend hours supergluing that thing
back together just to get outed now.
Your mom still doesn't know?
No.
Well, do your parents know you're the one
that knocked their tree over air-guitaring
or is the dog still to blame?
Shh!
Okay, touché.
[laughs]
Since we're talking about old memories,
I saw Alistair today.
Oh jeez. Where?
Bumped into him at the Incline rehearsal space.
Evidently, we booked it for the same time. Go figure.
And how'd it go?
It was actually really nice.
Really?
-No. -Oh.
We argued and he left.
You guys will have to figure it out sooner or later.
Yeah.
I think the problem is I don't even know what that is.
My entire life I've dreamed of being
in a successful rock band and I did it.
And now I'm worried
if I actually leave them to focus on writing,
I'll realize it was a mistake.
And it might be.
Gee. Thanks for the pep talk.
No, but you never know if you don't try.
If writing is what makes you truly happy it's worth the risk.
Sometimes you gotta, you know, shake it up.
Oh, I... I was just going to um...
Who wants a slice?
-Slice this. Get it served. -Got plates now.
Oh, honey, honey. Hold on. Come here.
Yeah, here. What?
Just shh, shhh. Just stay still, Just stay still.
Just stay still, just stay still. Don't move.
What happening here?
-Oh, oh, oh. -What?
Two tickets for the Inphonous concert tomorrow night.
What? How did...?
Really?
Merry Christmas, honey.
Ahhhhh! I love them!
Wow.
I love you too but I love them!
Got some competition there, Ryan.
Oh, I lost that contest a long time ago.
Archie: Yeah.
Oh no, come on. You guys are great.
But Inphonous is the best a cappella group
in the entire world!
Wait.
Where are they playing?
-At Reno. -Reno, yeah.
How have I not heard about this?
Well, it's a secret fan club only charity event.
Would you mind if I tagged along?
-Sure. -Not at all.
Great.
♪
You, um, you didn't have to come you know.
What, and miss sitting in the back seat like 12-year-olds?
I wouldn't have left you alone with them.
-I heard that. -Me too.
It's out of love, guys.
Besides, I think I have a plan.
Claire, did you know that Ryan sends us a postcard
from every city they play in?
-Mom. -That is so sweet.
You're embarrassing him, Joyce.
Dad.
You know, better than anyone that women love men
who are kind to their parents.
Wow.
[sighs]
Life on the road is so hard for relationships.
Here we go.
You know, I can't even remember the last time
Ryan had a girlfriend.
Why didn't we drive separately?
I don't know, bud.
Now, how about you, Claire?
Any new love interests in the mix?
Joyce, Dorothy already told you no.
Sorry, Claire.
No, it's okay.
And, um that's right, I, I've been too busy at the hotel
to even think of that stuff.
Hm, both single.
On Christmas.
[exasperated] Joyce.
♪
Okay. All right. Good luck.
And you, get me an autograph.
I didn't birth a rock star son for nothing.
Joyce, wait for me.
Well, after you, rock star.
Okay, what's the plan?
One of us runs interference while the other sneaks in?
We could knock him out and steal his jacket.
Sign over one of your residual checks.
I'm kidding.
But really, we do only get one shot here.
I know, just follow my lead.
Hey.
Where you going?
Name?
Uh, we're not on the list.
I'm Ryan Donaldson with Wild Lynx.
We're big fans.
We just want to say hi.
All right, give me a sec.
Your plan was just to ask?
Yeah.
[laughs]
What?
If we get denied this is going to be the funniest thing ever.
They're not going to deny us.
Why are you fidgeting?
I'm not. They're not going to deny us.
-Here you go. -Hi.
Hi.
You know, for a guy who doesn't think
he wants to be a rock star anymore
you kind of seem to be enjoying it.
Well, this stuff never gets old.
It's all the other stuff.
I guess, I can relate.
I will be so much happier when I can just focus on live events
and not have to worry about all the other hotel rigmarole.
Hopefully, we're going to make that happen.
You're up, maestro.
Can I help you?
Hi. I'm Claire Rhodes. I just need a moment with the band.
Claire Rhodes, The Inn on the Lake Claire Rhodes?
Yeah, I'm Dean, their manager.
We spoke.
Oh, right. Hi.
I told you they couldn't play.
I know, I know. Um, listen...
You know, I was a manager too once.
Congratulations.
She was actually our manager. She was excellent.
They fired me.
Long story.
Look Dean.
It's Christmas.
If you could do me this one favor
I promise you it will be worth it.
Two minutes, that's all I ask.
All right. Two minutes.
Thank you.
Hey gang.
Hey guys. I'm Claire. This is Ryan.
Hey. Big fans.
Wild Lynx, all right. Big fans too.
All right.
[laughs]
Hey, I know you're preparing for a show
so I'll make it quick.
My family owns The Inn on the Lake
and every year we put on a big Christmas Eve variety show.
I had Ashley Burns headlining.
Oh, I heard about that.
It's still going to be an incredible show.
We have Ricki Page doing a set and Fleur Du Ciel as well,
and I just know you all would round out the evening perfectly.
Sounds great
but I'm sure Dean already told you we fly home tomorrow.
Here's the thing.
We all know that Inphonous is practically synonymous
with Christmas.
Your rendition of "Silent Night" is iconic.
Aw thanks, you're sweet.
And trust me when I say there is no better place
to spend Christmas than The Inn on the Lake.
We pride ourselves on creating the perfect holiday atmosphere,
from our annual Christmas Gala to gingerbread house decorating.
You almost feel like
you're at the North Pole when you're there.
[laughs]
And believe me, when I was a little girl,
I kid you not, I thought it was the North Pole.
[laughs]
Look, I know how important it is to be with your families
during this time, so I'd be happy to fly out your families.
You can still spend Christmas together.
I promise you, if you come spend Christmas with our family,
you'll end up loving it just as much as I do.
You know what? Let's do it.
Yeah. Our parents don't get to see us perform
as often as they like,
and it'd be a nice change of scenery.
That's fantastic.
Thank you so much. We are going to have so much fun!
Well, all right. You guys go warm up.
Have a good show, guys.
We need to talk some business.
Yes.
Oh, you know what? One more thing...
[singing a Capella] ♪ ...Fa la la la la, la la la la ♪
♪ 'Tis the season to be jolly ♪
♪ Fa la la la la, la la la la ♪
♪ Don we now our gay apparel ♪
♪ Fa la la la la, la la la la ♪
♪ Troll the ancient Yuletide carol ♪
I can't believe they said yes.
Are you kidding?
You could've convinced The Grinch with that pitch.
Well, it's easy when it's true.
The Inn on the Lake is a... a special place.
-You okay? -Huh?
Uh, no, yeah. Yeah, yeah. I'm... I'm good.
Well, I'd say the job at The Emperor is all but yours now.
You deserve it.
♪ ...Deck the halls ♪
[applause]
Woo!
Thank you.
We hope you all have a very Merry Christmas.
And if you want some more we'll be playing at
The Inn on the Lake in Tahoe on Christmas Eve.
Oh, and Joyce Donaldson, we hope to see you there too.
Ahhhhh! They said my name!
Archie did you hear? They said my name.
There you are.
Hey Dad.
Concierge gave me a couple of extra tickets for the ball
if you want to give them out.
Sure.
Heard you booked another act for the show.
Yep. Inphonous signed on.
Oh.
So, we should have paramedics on site
in case Joyce has a heart attack?
100 percent.
We just need to sign a few forms for Fleur Du Ciel
and then I think we have a show with three days to spare.
Well, that's great because I also heard
Kevin Timbers' right arm is in a cast, ski accident.
Oh, that's too bad.
I gotta hand it to you.
When you want something you sure do make it happen.
Thanks.
You know, truth be told, Ryan actually helped a lot.
Oh, I know.
Your mother and Joyce have filled me
in on every single detail.
They need hobbies.
Desperately.
I'll leave you to it. See you at the tent later.
All right. Okay, bye Dad.
Bye, bye.
I'd love a few more light strands
from the fly lofts, if we can.
♪ There's a story that I was told ♪
♪ And I want to tell the world before I get too old ♪
♪ And all rememberin', so let's Decemberin, ♪
♪ and reassemblin' oh yeah ♪
♪ Once upon a time in... ♪
Hey, what are you doing here?
Um, sorry.
I probably should've asked.
Oh.
I needed a place to work. The house was a zoo.
I wasn't super psyched to try the rehearsal space
after the whole Alistair thing.
No, I... it's fine. I... I totally get it.
Is that the same one you've been working on?
Yep.
It's not done yet but it's uh, it's getting there.
Sounds awesome.
Really? Thanks.
Yeah. What's it called?
Doesn't have a name yet.
Well, can't wait to hear it when it's finished.
You'll be the first, I promise.
So, last night was fun.
[laughs]
Yeah. It was.
[laughs]
Well, I'll get out of your way.
Oh no, no. I'm sorry.
No, you should stay.
You can play as long as you want.
-It's fine. -You sure?
Yes. Yeah.
Thanks, um... I'll see you later then, I guess.
Yes, definitely.
Um, actually if you're not doing anything tonight
I have an extra ticket to the annual Christmas Gala
if you... if you wanna go.
Uh... Sure, yeah. I'd love to.
I'll see you there.
[playing piano] ♪
[knocking at door]
-Claire. -Hey Alistair.
How are you?
I'm good. Yeah.
Nice to be back home for a bit, taking a little time off.
I heard.
That's actually why I stopped by.
You been talking to Ryan?
Wait, are you guys...
No.
No, he's just helping out with some stuff at the hotel.
And to be clear, he didn't ask me to come.
Doesn't even know I'm here.
Okay.
So then, not to sound like a jerk, but why are you here?
Because believe it or not, despite all that happened
I still care about you guys.
About Wild Lynx.
And I just... I wish things weren't so rocky
between the two of you right now.
Yeah well, I'm not sure what he thought being in a band
was going to be like, but we all made a commitment, so.
I know. But things change.
People change.
As I found out myself, what we want when we're younger
isn't always the same when we get older.
Sure, but that doesn't mean he can just bail, you know?
He's our lead guitarist.
What he does affects the rest of us.
I hear you, I totally do.
But Wild Lynx is more than any individual member.
Even the lead singer.
Look, all I'm saying is just maybe try to be open
to different possibilities.
It might surprise you.
I'll think about it.
I'll take that.
Anyway, I need to run.
But um, it was really good to see you.
You too.
Claire.
I'm sorry about how things ended with all of us back in the day.
Thanks.
I really hope you and Ryan work things out.
♪ I was looking for love ♪
♪ Like I was looking for another hole in my head ♪
Ryan?
♪ Frozen tundras never wonder how to get warm ♪
♪ We just drift into the night instead ♪
♪
♪ Hold up you said I ain't crazy ♪
♪ You think that just maybe we're supposed to be ♪
♪
[claps]
Woo woo!
[laughs]
Oh, man.
I thought you were running errands for tonight's gala.
Uh nope, I was right here
watching all of that amazingness happen.
That was just me messing around.
That was not messing around.
Jackson, have you played that for anyone?
Not really.
I've done a few open mic nights, but yeah.
Okay, wait, wait, wait.
So, you really weren't going on dates.
Those were gigs.
I just didn't want to say anything until I had
a couple more shows under my belt.
How long has this been going on?
Since Dawn and I split up.
Gave me something else to focus on.
Something I always dreamt of
but never let myself consider seriously.
Well, you need to pursue it now
and you are going to play in the Christmas Eve show.
What? Claire, no.
Yes! Yes!
Come on, you have to.
I'm not asking for a whole set, just like two songs.
People need to hear you play Jackson, you're too good.
Thanks, but jeez, I don't...
I mean, you have a potential job on the line.
Yeah exactly. You'll make me look great.
Come on, you in?
All right.
Yes! Awesome!
I wasn't going to let you say no anyway.
I know.
[laughs]
♪
♪ Jingle all the way ♪
♪
♪ Oh, what fun it is to ride... ♪
Merry Christmas.
Wow.
You look... wow.
Not so bad yourself.
I didn't even think rock stars were allowed to own ties.
Yeah, we're not. Borrowed it from my dad.
Ah.
Hey Ryan.
Glad you could make it.
Thanks Mr. Rhodes. Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas to you too.
All the party favors arrived, right?
Yes, Dad.
Okay good, just checking.
So, are you working all night
or do you actually get to enjoy some of this?
[sighs]
Well, fortunately I have a lot of help
so I think I may finally
be able to get into the Christmas spirit.
Well, in that case let's make the most of it.
[laughs]
Merry Christmas.
[upbeat pop music] ♪
Will you excuse me for a second?
No.
[laughs]
Question, can I use my Star Resorts points
for a Wild Lynx concert ticket?
Um, I...
I have over 100,000 points.
That's a lot.
Ladies and gentlemen.
Wow. What a night, huh?
[applause]
My wife, Dorothy, and I would like to thank you all
for choosing to stay at our hotel to celebrate Christmas this year.
We're a family-run operation
and we like to think of all of you as our family as well.
[applause]
But I'd especially like to thank our daughter, Claire
who organized tonight's fantastic party,
along with the countless other things she does that makes
The Inn on the Lake so special.
Yeah, Claire!
[applause]
Sweetheart, I know I don't say it enough
but I can't tell you how lucky and proud I am
to have you working by my side.
I'd be truly lost without you.
I can't wait to see what we are going to achieve together
in the coming years.
To Claire.
Guests: To Claire! Cheers!
-You okay? -Yeah.
Just...
Yeah.
Do you want to dance?
♪ Oh, holy night, the stars are shining... ♪
I know you won't believe me
but he's not going to fault you for following your dreams.
It might be hard at first but he'll understand.
[sighs] I hope so.
I do think it's time you told him.
The last think you want
is for him to hear it from somebody else.
♪
I know. You're right.
I'll um... I'll tell him tomorrow.
You okay?
♪ ...For yonder breaks ♪
♪ a new and glorious morn ♪
♪ Fall on your knees ♪
Ryan: Let's get some air.
Oh no, that's sweet. You don't have to.
-Okay. That's nice, actually. -Yeah.
[laughs]
You know, I think this might be
my favorite Christmas event that we do.
Besides the show, of course.
Mine too.
It's funny,
I never realized how much I missed this place
until I came back.
Really?
Yeah. I didn't get the chance to.
I was always on the go.
But now that I've had a second to take a breath
for the first time in like, forever,
I don't want to leave.
Wait, what are you saying?
I think I'm going to move back.
[laughs] Wow!
And then what about the band?
Well, it's like you said.
If writing is really what I want to focus on
then I'll have to take the risk
and just hope that Alistair and the guys understand.
Somehow, I think they might.
-Thank you. -For what?
For being so supportive.
Of course.
It'd be a shame if you couldn't find a way to make it work.
You're too talented.
I missed you.
I missed you too.
♪
[notification alert]
[laughs]
Um. I'm so sorry.
Your phone continues to have exquisite timing.
Yes, it does. I'm so sorry.
Let me turn that...
Oh no, no, no.
Wait. What is it?
Fleur Du Ciel can't do the show.
They booked another gig in Vegas.
[sighs]
[chuckles]
Hey.
I'm really sorry, Claire.
You worked too hard to have
the rug pulled out from under you twice in one week.
Thanks.
But, you know, I've been giving it some thought
and, I think, we'll be okay.
Really?
We're not still on Stage 1 of grief, are we?
No.
Great. So, what's the plan?
The plan is to just go with the lineup we have.
I have done everything I possibly could
to make this an awesome show,
and hopefully they'll see that too.
So, what if it's not a full variety show.
We have some awesome acts.
And me.
Stop.
You are going to be great.
And you are really great at this too, Claire.
Thanks.
I did book these groups in less than a week during the holidays.
If The Emperor Resorts can't appreciate that,
maybe it's not meant to be.
♪
Oh hey. What's up?
Could we talk?
Yeah. Come on in.
Hey sweetie.
Did you get a chance to ask Santa what you want
for Christmas yet?
[gasps]
Here's a pass. Tell him Blitzen sent you.
[laughs]
[phone rings]
Hey.
Hey. What are you doing right now?
I'm at the hotel. Why?
Can you come meet me?
Claire, over here.
The Wishing Tree, huh?
Look, the last time we were here
I got my wish but you never got yours.
I told you, it's okay.
I know, I know.
But I just don't want it to happen again, so.
[laughs]
Ok... I don't understand.
Wild Lynx can do the show.
What? Are you serious?
Yeah.
I went and saw Alistair and we finally talked it all out.
Well, that's fantastic!
Yeah, it was good. It was really good.
I'm going to join them for the first part of the next tour
while they look for my replacement
and then I'm going to step back.
Stay here and write some songs for the band,
some for me, and then we'll play it by ear.
They told me I can come back any time I want.
Ryan!
I know.
I told Alistair all about the jam you're in,
he insisted that we play the show.
Everybody agrees. We're all in.
With everything we've all been through together
we definitely owe you this.
Gosh.
I mean, um, thank you.
I thought this is what you wanted, Claire.
To put on a killer show that was going to impress
The Emperor Resort so much
that they're begging to work with you.
Right, right, I know. I really, really appreciate it. I...
I guess, I thought you'd be happier.
I am.
I'm, I'm happy. I really am.
I just um, I don't know.
These last few days have just reminded me
how special this place is.
Now, you're gonna be here and...
It's going to be kind of hard to say goodbye.
I know.
And believe me, selfishly I don't want you to leave either.
But I know what it's like to go live out my dream
and I want that for you.
Or you might always regret it.
Yes, hi. The name's Andre Hudson.
It might also be under The Emperor Resort's account.
Claire Rhodes, your general manager,
made the reservation.
Mr. Hudson?
I couldn't help but overhear.
I'm Tim Rhodes, the hotel's owner and Claire's father.
Oh, yes.
Well, good to meet you, sir.
You must be very proud.
Now Claire's a very impressive person.
She certainly is.
May I ask what brings you to town for the holidays?
I'm up to see the big show tomorrow.
You came up from Vegas to see our variety show?
That's right.
I wanted to see Claire in action for myself.
Right.
Um, okay great.
I'll let Claire know you're here.
I just realized I need to talk to her as well.
Claire?
Dad, what's up?
I just met Andre Hudson.
Oh.
Care to tell me what's going on?
[sighs]
Dad, I'm... I'm sorry.
I, um, I didn't want to say anything before it was official.
Then I was going to tell you and things just got crazy.
But um, I think I'm about to get a job offer running
the new variety show at The Emperor Resorts in Las Vegas.
Oh.
Okay. I guess, uh, congratulations.
But, I thought, you loved working here.
Oh, I know. I... I do.
But I told you I... I really love working live events
and The Emperor is like the premiere place to do that.
I'd be working for and with the best in the business.
That is my true passion, Dad.
You'd really leave here to do that?
Yeah.
How many times have you told me that you tried to make this
a regular music destination back in the day
and it... it failed.
Just too hard to compete with Vegas,
Reno, San Francisco.
I know, I know, but...
And don't forget I wasn't even supposed to be here originally.
I... I thought I'd be off managing Wild Lynx.
Right.
You're right.
I just wish... I just wish we could've talked about it first.
We work so well together.
I thought this was going to be your future.
Dad.
Um...
It's okay, it's okay.
You do what you need to do and uh, we'll talk more later.
Okay?
Uh...
Okay.
[sighs]
-You okay? -Yeah.
Hey Otis. I'm fine, just having a bit of a dilemma.
Anything I can do to help?
Have you ever had to choose between two great options?
Only every day.
People ask me all the time
"Otis, what side of the line is your favorite?"
And I say both can be great
depending on what you're looking for.
One day you might want to catch some rays
in Venice Beach in California
or the next go hiking in the Spring Mountains in Nevada.
Neither one's better.
All that really matters is who's going to be there with you.
Hmm.
[exhales]
Yes. And when they're done go to lighting Q6.
Yep, great.
[strumming guitar] ♪ ...it's Christmas time ♪
That's good. That was it.
Yeah, I think it's going to be good.
Are the gift baskets set in all the dressing rooms?
Oh, and make sure the passes have been left
for the Donaldsons.
Thank you.
Hey.
Uh, what were you and Jackson doing over there?
Uh, we were just talking shop.
You okay?
I think so.
Hey. I know you've got a thousand things on your mind
but try and take a second and take all this in.
I mean, after a week of insanity you made all this happen.
That is an incredible achievement, Claire.
Well, I couldn't have done it without you.
Well, I don't know if that's true,
but I know The Emperor will be ridiculously lucky to have you.
Okay, well, um... I better finish warming up.
[crowd chattering]
-Nice crowd. -I know.
All the decorations are beautiful.
Good evening, everyone.
I'm Tim Rhodes, the owner of The Inn on the Lake.
[applause]
I am here tonight to warmly welcome you all
to our annual Christmas Eve show.
[applause]
To start things off on this o holy of nights,
we have a wonderful singer.
So please give it up for our very own, Jackson Monroe.
[applause]
♪
♪ I was looking for love ♪
♪ Like I was looking for another hole in my head ♪
♪
♪ Frozen tundras never wonder how to get warm ♪
♪ We just drift into the night instead ♪
♪
♪ Hold up you said I ain't crazy ♪
♪ You think that just maybe ♪
♪ we're supposed to be ♪
♪
♪ It's cold to be alone ♪
♪ And my heart is accident prone ♪
♪ Unfreeze this frozen lady ♪
♪ And put on them mittens, baby ♪
♪ I, I, I, I'm your mittens, baby ♪
♪ I, I, I, I'm your mittens, love ♪
[applause]
You know what we don't talk about enough?
What a catch Santa Claus is.
[crowd laughs]
No seriously, think about it.
He runs a successful business, inspires the world to be good,
and he looks great in red.
No man looks good in red.
[crowd laughs]
Oh.
Well, except for you, sir.
Ah.
Merry Christmas.
[crowd laughs]
♪ Holy night ♪
♪ All is calm All is bright ♪
♪ Round yon virgin mother and child ♪
♪ Holy infant so... ♪
[playing rock music] ♪
♪ High Sierra goodbye ♪
♪ Christmas Island hello ♪
♪ Oh put your feet in the sand now ♪
♪ High Sierra goodbye ♪
♪ Christmas Island hello ♪
♪
[applause]
Thank you.
Thank you so much.
We got another one for you
but I want to bring out Jackson Monroe to finish it with me.
[applause]
I also want to dedicate this song to somebody very special.
She put this whole show together with literally no time at all.
Truly it was a Christmas miracle.
[applause]
From the first day that I met her
she has inspired me to follow my dreams,
and when in doubt to shake it up.
[applause]
♪ Ho, ho, ho ♪
♪ Shake up the happiness ♪
♪ Wake up the happiness ♪
♪ Shake up the happiness ♪
♪ It's Christmas time ♪
♪ There's a story that I was told ♪
♪ And I wanna tell the world ♪
♪ Before I get too old ♪
♪ And don't remember it ♪
♪ So let's December it ♪
♪ And reassemble it, oh yeah ♪
♪ Once upon a time in a town like this ♪
♪ A little girl made a great big wish ♪
♪ To fill the world full of happiness ♪
♪ And be on Santa's magic list ♪
♪ Shake it up ♪
♪ Shake up the happiness ♪
♪ Wake it up ♪
♪ Wake up the happiness ♪
♪ Come on y'all It's Christmas time ♪
♪ At the same time miles away ♪
♪ A little boy made a wish that day ♪
♪ That the world would be okay ♪
♪ And Santa Claus would hear him say ♪
♪ I got dreams and I got love ♪
♪ I got my feet on the ground ♪
♪ And family above ♪
♪ Can you send some happiness? ♪
♪ With my best to the rest ♪
♪ Of the people of the East and the West and ♪
♪ And let me meet a girl one day that ♪
♪ Wants to spread some love this way ♪
♪ We can let our souls run free ♪
♪ And she can open some happiness with me ♪
♪
♪ Wake it up ♪
♪ Wake up the happiness ♪
♪ Come on y'all It's Christmas time ♪
♪ Ho, ho, ho ♪
♪ It's Christmas time ♪
[cheering and applause]
That's my boy!
[cheering and applause]
Hi sweetheart. Thank you for coming.
So great. She was...
So glad.
Ricki, fabulous set.
Girl, I haven't had that much fun on stage in a long time.
Speaking of fun, put in a good word for me with Jackson.
Okay.
Honey, that show was off the charts.
You did such a great job.
Unbelievable night.
Thanks. You too, really.
Where's Ryan?
He's around somewhere.
But hey. I was just asking Jackson
if he'd like to come open for us next month.
Told him I had to check with the boss first, of course.
I obviously said yes.
[laughs]
I am so happy for you.
You deserve it.
Thank you for getting me out of my comfort zone,
putting me out on that stage.
Can I talk to you for a second?
Excuse us.
Yeah.
Dad I...
Sweetheart, I am so proud of you.
Thank you.
I got to say, what you' managed to do in this last week
made me realize that back in the day I didn't have your touch.
And it got me wondering.
About what?
Look, trying to make this place
into a regular live entertainment operation would be difficult.
And some people would say "if it ain't broke, don't fix it."
But I can see now that if anyone can do it, it's you.
So, if you'd want to stay
I'll help you with whatever you need to make it happen.
Dad, I...
Wow.
Incredible show, Claire.
Um...
You know, I knew how talented you were
but I have to say this absolutely blew me away.
I'll let you two catch up.
-Andre, nice to meet you. -Good to meet you.
Thank you.
That... that means the world coming from you.
Look Claire, the job is obviously yours.
Now we would be absolutely thrilled
to have you join us in Vegas.
So, what do you say?
[strumming guitar softly]
-Hey. -Hey.
What are you playing?
Nothing. Just an idea.
Already writing another song.
When you're in the flow.
Congrats on the job.
You're going to be great.
Yeah, thanks.
I, um, I would've been great.
Sorry?
I turned it down.
Claire, are you crazy?
Maybe. Yeah, probably. Yes.
I don't know.
The Emperor would have been an incredible experience.
I would've immediately gotten to do everything I dreamed of.
But this hotel is my family.
My home.
And Dad even said he'd be willing to help make
live music happen here again.
So, if there's a chance I could turn this place
into a destination that big acts want to come to year round.
I mean, I'd be crazier not to try, right?
[laughs]
And then who knows what this place could be like in 10 years.
I'm excited to find out.
And I'd be lying if I said
that was the only thing keeping me here.
Well, I'd be lying if I said
writing was the only thing keeping me here.
I don't think those two kids
at The Wishing Tree all those years ago
could've imagined that this is where they would end up.
[laughs]
If I could make one wish right now,
I'd wish to be here with you.
Couldn't have said it better myself.
Merry Christmas, Ryan.
Merry Christmas, Claire.
♪
♪ Shake it up, shake up the happiness ♪
♪ Wake it up, wake up the happiness ♪
Come on, y'all, it's Christmas time.
♪ Shake it up, shake up the happiness ♪
♪ Wake it up, wake up the happiness ♪
Come on, y'all, it's Christmas time.
♪
♪ It's cold to be alone ♪
♪ And my heart is accident prone ♪
♪
♪ I, I, I, I'm your mittens, baby ♪
♪
♪ I, I, I, I'm your mittens, love ♪